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The 6th International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC), Qatar 2025 organised by the Primary Health Care Corporation ( PHCC) concluded Saturday with ten key recommendations to advance primary healthcare in Qatar and beyond.Some of these recommendations include: Enhancing research skills among clinical doctors and decision-makers; a comprehensive law on professional ethics; developing a multidisciplinary workforce in primary healthcare and promoting adolescent mental health among others.Addressing the concluding ceremony, Dr Mariam Abdul Malik, managing director, PHCC said that the three-day conference held under the theme: “Inspiring Tomorrow: The Power of Collaboration in Primary Health Care” saw the spirit of teamwork with integration among institutions and experts for a promising and healthy future.“We have completed numerous scientific sessions and workshops, distinguished by rich discussions reflecting everyone’s commitment to safeguarding human health, tackling global challenges, and envisioning a future rooted in innovation and health transformation,” explained, Dr Abdul Malik.“These efforts have culminated in valuable scientific outcomes. Among these, we are proud to present the key recommendations—fruits of collaboration between participants from Qatar and around the world,” she remarked.The first recommendation is enhancing research skills among clinical doctors and decision-makers, and providing complete resources to the primary healthcare institution so that it directly contributes to policy formulation, resource allocation, and planning for primary healthcare and preventive health services.The next one suggests reviewing, updating, and unifying health legislation in Qatar to work towards a comprehensive law on professional ethics that benefits all parties in collaboration with relevant institutions, while learning from the experiences of countries in the region.The conference has advocated establishing comprehensive support for lifestyle, obesity, and self-management across the life stages through organised, digitally supported lifestyle programmes, treating obesity as a chronic disease that requires psychological and social care, and implementing the therapeutic patient education model.Meanwhile, the conference suggests developing a multidisciplinary workforce in primary healthcare with empowerment, through organised partnerships between academic institutions and the health sector, enabling them to fulfill their roles to the fullest extent of their authority, improve and provide necessary patient care, and contribute to achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030 health service goals.It also proposes to strengthen a strong culture of employee well-being that prioritises mental safety, a comfortable work environment, and stress management, to prevent burnout and ensure high-quality healthcare.The next suggestion aims at promoting adolescent mental health through early detection of mental health disorders in children and adolescents, within a clear national policy and defined referral pathways.It further advocates the establishment of national policies that integrate complementary medicine into the healthcare system in a safe and sustainable manner.Next item among the recommendations is the expansion of digital health services through the National Center in the Ministry of Public Health for health information exchange, clinical decision support systems, and patient applications, making services faster, safer, and more adaptable.Another suggestion is the integration and enhancement of artificial intelligence systems in the use of electronic medical records, particularly regarding early screening and follow-up, while ensuring privacy, fairness, and clinical accountability.Lastly, the conference, aims to enhance medication safety by standardising procedures across the healthcare system.The conference saw broad participation of about 1,000 experts, physicians, and specialists from various countries, making it one of the most prominent scientific gatherings in the region and an important platform for exchanging expertise and knowledge. 

Mohammed Miandad VP, Chairman and Managing Director of 33 Holdings Global, has been named among Forbes Middle East’s Top Healthcare Leaders 2025 – Founders & Shareholders, making him one of the youngest Founder to feature in this year’s prestigious ranking. The recognition highlights his visionary leadership in transforming Middle Easts’ healthcare landscape through diversified innovation and international expansion.Ranked in the Founders & Shareholders category, Miandad represents a new generation of healthcare entrepreneurs driving regional excellence and global integration. Under his direction, 33 Holdings Global has built a robust healthcare investment footprint encompassing Naseem Healthcare, Medinova Healthcare, ABM4 Scientific, ABM4 Trading, and Dfine Dental Lab, together redefining accessibility, quality, and cross-border medical collaboration.In 2025, 33 Holdings Global continued its dynamic growth through strategic expansions. Its subsidiary ABM4 Scientific signed major agreements with leading pharmaceutical companies in Qatar, strengthening medical supply chains and research partnerships.Through Naseem Healthcare, the group launched its first ever guest mobile application in Qatar’s private healthcare sector, and a Super Specialty Surgical Center with inpatient facilities along with its fourth Super Specialty Centre in Al Khor, marking another leap in advanced healthcare and medical excellence.Miandad’s forward-thinking leadership extends across continents as he also serves as Managing Director of Medinova Healthcare in Africa and Director of Dfine Dental Lab in Qatar, contributing to global healthcare integration and technology-driven global service standards.Forbes Middle East’s Top Healthcare Leaders 2025 showcases the most influential founders and shareholders shaping the future of healthcare in the region. The selection acknowledges leadership impact, diversification, innovation, and sustainability, spotlighting professionals advancing the Middle East’s medical ecosystem into a new era of transformation.Miandad VP’s inclusion for the third consecutive year underscores not only his entrepreneurial achievements but also the growing global recognition of Qatar’s healthcare excellence on the world stage.

The View Hospital, in Affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, recently held “Innovations in Women’s Health” Symposium. The two-day event brought together more than 200 physicians, nurses, allied health, researchers and healthcare leaders from Qatar, the GCC and international medical institutions to share the latest advancements in women’s health and exchange expertise aimed at shaping future standards of care.This year’s edition built on the momentum of the “Innovations” series with a comprehensive scientific program covering broad areas of women’s health. The symposium emphasized the role of innovation in improving clinical practices and highlighted the need to ensure equitable and compassionate healthcare for women globally.As part of the symposium, The View Hospital presented the Women of Healing Champion Award, honouring six distinguished leaders for their extraordinary impact in healthcare. Dr. Mariam Ali Abdul Malik, Managing Director of PHCC, was recognized for her pioneering role in strengthening primary healthcare in Qatar. Dr. Ameena Jesaimani, Executive Director of Pharmacy at HMC, was recognized for advancing pharmacy practice and medication safety.Dr. Noora Al Hammadi, Deputy CMO at NCCCR, was recognized for her leadership in oncology and cancer innovation. Dr. Amal Al Obaidli, Chairperson of Clinical Imaging at HMC, was recognized for transforming diagnostic imaging and championing early detection. Dr. Hadeel Al Ramli, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The View Hospital, was honored for her compassionate, comprehensive care in women’s health.Finally, Dr. Seungmin Kathy Lee, Consultant in Alternative Medicine at the Korean Medical Center, was recognized for integrating Korean traditional medicine with modern healthcare to advance holistic patient care.These women embody the very essence of leadership, compassion and resilience. Their journeys reflect not only professional excellence but also a shared commitment to breaking barriers, driving innovation and elevating the standards of care for women across Qatar and beyond.Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul, Chief Executive Officer of The View Hospital, said: “This symposium reflects our strong commitment to making women’s health a key part of building a healthier society. By bringing together experts from different fields, we are turning the latest research and technology into real improvements in patient care. Through our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, we are proud to combine global expertise with local knowledge, ensuring that women in Qatar and the region receive the best in innovation and compassionate care.”The symposium drew a distinguished gathering of international and regional experts, with Cedars-Sinai leaders addressing key topics such as the hormone journey from menarche to menopause, new perspectives on breast and gynecologic oncology, and advancements in endometriosis. They were joined by a strong regional and local presence alongside contributors from Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, Aspetar, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Qatar University, Al Emadi Hospital, West Bay Medicare and other leading institutions.Reflecting the global spirit of the symposium, symposium cochair Dr. Harry Sax, Professor of Surgery and Associate Dean of International Academic Affairs and site Medical Director at Cedars-Sinai; noted, “Every time experts come together to share data, techniques, and outcomes, patient care moves forward. Women represent more than half of the global population, yet they remain underrepresented in clinical research and gender specific health care protocols. At Cedars-Sinai, we are strongly committed to advancing women’s health through specialized institutes such as the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, and through pioneering work in breast health, obstetrics, gynecology, urology, genetics and longevity. Our affiliation with The View Hospital and this symposium exemplifies Qatar’s emergence as a hub for women’s health innovation, with insights that will elevate standards well beyond the region.”The symposium also carried academic weight, granting participants 12.5 CPD points. This activity is an Accredited Group Learning Activity (Category 1) as defined by the Ministry of Public Health’s Department of Healthcare Professions - Accreditation Section and is approved for a maximum of 12.50 hours. Participants also received 10 CME credits recognized by Cedars-Sinai in the United States.In line with its commitment to advancing women’s health, The View Hospital has enhanced its Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, located on the fifth floor. The department combines world-class expertise with advanced diagnostics, monitoring systems and specialized technologies, including the da Vinci robotic surgery system, laparoscopy, colposcopy and hysteroscopy. The hospital has also introduced a dedicated clinic for endometriosis and uterine fibroids, further positioning itself at the forefront of women’s health by providing cutting-edge solutions that improve outcomes and enhance quality of life.The annual innovations symposium has now firmly established itself as a leading platform in the region’s medical calendar, bringing global expertise to Doha and reinforcing Qatar’s growing reputation for healthcare innovation and excellence.

In the presence of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the foundation stone of Baghdad International Hospital has been laid — marking one of the most significant milestones in healthcare for Iraq and the region.This project represents a key pillar of Apex Health’s expansion strategy, under Estithmar Holding, which is steadily advancing toward becoming one of the leading Arab healthcare groups.**media[371091]**The new hospital, with a capacity of 400 beds, will deliver world-class medical services and marks a transformative step for Iraq’s healthcare sector.Following its success in managing two hospitals in Iraq with a total of 1,200 beds — and with operations now spanning four countries and managing over 5,000 beds — Apex Health continues to shape the future of healthcare in the region.**media[371094]**Baghdad International Hospital — a new chapter for a healthier Iraq.

The Behavioural Healthcare Centre (Daam), member of Qatar Foundation for Social Work, has wrapped up its awareness campaign on the principle of respect.Launched in April and held in co-operation with the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association, the QatarDebate Centre, and Al Thuraya Planetarium – Katara, the campaign concluded its activities at Al Obaib Primary School for Girls, in the participation of Sustainable Development Goals Ambassadors, in addition to the schools taking part in the campaign.The awareness campaign involved 1,200 primary, preparatory, and secondary cycle students from 45 schools, offering students a comprehensive array of educational and awareness activities aimed at instilling in students the principle of respect.The campaign featured a variety of activities, including lectures on the importance of self-respect and the respect of others, a film screening, relevant readings, and interactive quizzes, along with a puppet theatre performance that addressed self-confidence and respect.Students participated in drawing and colouring activities as well as designed instructional posters on respect and social responsibility.The programme concluded with a screening of a series titled *Family Diaries, which highlighted daily positive behaviour.Achieving widespread reach and success, the campaign strengthened partnerships among educational and community institutions, underscoring the importance of joint efforts in promoting morality and forming a conscious and responsible new generation capable of giving back to the community and serving the country. – QNA

Behind Japan’s futuristic Expo showcase lies a deeper goal: turning its domestic pavilions into real-world incubators that would spark breakthroughs in healthcare, digital technology, and green solutions for the future.This strategy is anchored by two distinct pillars – resource circulation and regenerative medicine – each presented in highly interactive and functional exhibition spaces at the Expo 2025 Osaka.According to organisers, the Japan pavilion, themed “Between Lives,” serves as the epicentre of this national strategy. Its architecture, divided into unique Plant, Farm, and Factory zones, symbolises the concept of “circulation,” a principle deeply embedded in Japanese culture and craftsmanship.Masafumi Sugano, deputy commissioner general for Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and director of the Expo’s International Office, told reporters that the pavilion operationalises cyclical resource management by tackling the issue of waste generated on-site.“Within the pavilion, we actually take rubbish, garbage, trash from the Expo site, we decompose it and turn it into clean water, and methane,” Sugano said. “Then we take the algae (developed from methane) and turn it into valuable products.”This functional system, he noted, shows how Japan interprets the circular economy, focusing not just on recycling, but on creating business-viable, productive systems that remain responsible to the global climate.“It shows how we interpret the circular economy in Japan, which is something that I’m sure would be interesting for Qatar,” he added.Sugano said the commitment to circularity extends to the structure itself, pointing out that the wooden panels used in the pavilion’s architecture are designed to be repurposed across Japan once the event concludes.Adding a playful touch to this environmental pledge, the pavilion also features an array of algae – 32 unique types – some represented as popular, adorable Hello Kitty characters, flourishing in a warmly lit “forest of the future”.Complementing the focus on green innovation, the Pasona Natureverse pavilion explores the future of healthcare, highlighting revolutionary regenerative medicine based on Induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPS).iPS technology allows adult cells to be “reprogrammed” back to a pluripotent state, enabling scientists to differentiate them into any required cell type. This breakthrough, discovered by Nobel Laureate Dr Shinya Yamanaka in 2009, forms the basis of two groundbreaking exhibits.Carla Alonso from the Pasona Group presented the iPS Heart, an artificial heart model created by transforming some 200 million skin adult stem cells into beating heart muscle tissue.“What you see here is essentially an artificial model of a heart... beating completely by itself without any electrical impulse,” she said.While the exhibit currently displays only the heart muscle tissue, she said the goal is to use this technology within the next 50 years to completely reproduce whole hearts from a patient’s own cells, significantly reducing the high rate of rejection associated with traditional heart transplants.However, a more immediate application is the iPS Heart Muscle Sheet, which Alonso described as functioning ‘a little bit like a band aid’. She said this sheet is applied to cardiac tissue damaged by heart failure, where it re-integrates into the surrounding tissue and promotes regeneration.“In around two weeks, new capillary networks can be created and the heart can start to function normally again,” Alonso said. She noted that the technology is already further along; the company behind the specific exhibit, CUORIPS, has completed a successful human trial and has applied for government permission to begin making this a real treatment, positioning it for potential use far sooner than the full iPS Heart.The theme of transforming society continues at the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion, themed “Reborn,” which offers visitors a tangible glimpse into urban life in 2050.The interactive ‘Reborn experience’ route captures visitors’ individual health data via a body analysis pod, subsequently generating an avatar showing them their personalised health and lifestyle 25 years in the future. The exhibit pools Osaka’s collective wisdom, technology, and ideas on future cities, food, and culture, creating a powerful, personalized experience.From personalised healthcare stations like the Cell Design Station and Eye Care station to interactive projections of future cities, the Osaka pavilion highlights that Japan’s Expo presence is not merely about showcasing technology, but about defining, developing, and deploying the systems needed to support a thriving, sustainable, and healthy future society.

European shares were flat on Wednesday, with gains in heavyweight healthcare stocks offsetting the decline in the broader market, as investors fretted over a potential delay in the closely-watched US jobs data. The pan-European STOXX 600 (.STOXX), opened new tab held steady at 557.9 points, after posting its third successive monthly gain in September. Local bourses were mixed. Germany's DAX was down 0.5%, while the UK's FTSE 100 climbed 0.2% to an all-time high. Healthcare stocks jumped 2.7%, and Novartis gained 2.8%.

European shares eased on Tuesday as heavyweight energy and healthcare stocks lost ground, while investors weighed the potential impact of a US government shutdown that could delay the release of the closely-watched monthly jobs data. The pan-European STOXX 600 (.STOXX), opened new tab slipped 0.2% to 554.7 points, though set for its third successive monthly gain and a more than 2% gain for the quarter. Heavyweight oil and gas stocks dipped 0.8%, tracking declining oil prices. France's TotalEnergies and the UK's BP fell more than 1% each. Healthcare stocks also shed 0.3%, with Denmark's Novo Nordisk and the UK's AstraZeneca down about 1% each. On the economic data front in Europe, the UK economy grew 0.3% in the second quarter, French preliminary inflation stood at 1.1% in September and German retail sales unexpectedly fell in August. Britain's ASOS slid 11.4%.

European stocks retreated on Thursday under pressure from losses in the healthcare and industrials sectors in early trading, with focus on remarks from a number of Federal Reserve (US central bank) policymakers and data scheduled later in the day to clarify the path of monetary policy.The pan‑European STOXX 600 index fell 0.5 percent to 551.3 points.Most European stock exchanges also opened lower, with both Germany's benchmark index and the UK's FTSE 100 down 0.4 percent.The healthcare stocks index dropped 1.1 percent, with German medical technology firm Siemens Healthineers falling 6 percent.British medical device maker Smith and Nephew also slipped by 1.1 percent.Losses also included the construction and building materials sector, which fell 1.1 percent, and the industrial goods and services sector, down 0.6 percent.

The State of Qatar participated in a ministerial roundtable meeting on healthcare in the Gaza Strip, hosted by the United Kingdom, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.The State of Qatar was represented by His Excellency Minister of Public Health Mansour bin Ibrahim Al Mahmoud.His Excellency stressed that the humanitarian catastrophe facing civilians in the Gaza Strip as a result of the Israeli aggression constitutes war crimes, emphasizing that the world cannot remain silent in the face of this tragedy.His Excellency called for immediate action to stop the aggression, save lives, and protect health facilities and their workers.His Excellency also highlighted the role played by the State of Qatar, its leadership and people, in standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the State of Palestine as a whole, and its commitment to assisting them. He also noted that Qatar continues its efforts to find a just solution despite the treacherous attack launched by Israel against the State of Qatar in a desperate attempt to undermine any hope for peace and an end to the war.During the roundtable meeting, participants heard firsthand testimonies from doctors and healthcare workers who worked in the Gaza Strip, who provided vivid accounts of the tragedies they experienced there.The roundtable was attended by the British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, HE Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and President of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Dr. Younes Al-Khatib.His Excellency Minister of Public Health also participated in a number of events accompanying the meetings of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, including the event 'One Vision, One Future: Rallying Global Momentum on NCDs for Generations to Come,' organized by the Sultanate of Oman, 'The Political Economy of Implementing Primary Health Care: Key Policy Shifts,' organized by the Republic of Kazakhstan, and "A Global Movement to Improve Survival and Reduce Suffering for Children with Cancer and other Catastrophic Diseases,' organized by the Republic of Uzbekistan and the World Health Organization, in addition to other entities.

As the fastest-growing healthcare provider in the MENA region, Apex Health stands out for its exceptional patient-centered care with earning five recognition awards.Apex Health, a subsidiary of Estithmar Holding and one of the Middle East and North Africa’s leading healthcare providers, has achieved a remarkable milestone in its journey, with the organization itself, along with four of its hospitals recognized among the winners of the Arab Hospitals Federation’s Gold Initiative Certificate - Star of Excellence in Patient Experience. Each hospital achieved distinction in its own category, reflecting Apex Health’s unwavering commitment to delivering patient-centered excellence care across its hospitals.The recognition took place during a ceremony held on Wednesday, under the patronage and in the presence of distinguished leaders, with the participation of the Arab Hospitals Federation, the support and knowledge contribution of The Beryl Institute, and the presence of leading healthcare institutions from across the Arab world.Following a rigorous evaluation by a jury panel in collaboration with The Beryl Institute. These hospitals stood out among 267 participating healthcare institutions from 10 countries for their excellence in safety, quality, innovation, governance, and the overall patient journey. For Apex Health, this achievement reinforces its reputation for operational excellence, innovative practices, and a culture that places patients at the heart of everything it does.Apex Health’s celebrated itself and four of its hospitals in both Qatar and Iraq, each earning top positions in multiple categories within the Gold Initiative Certificate. In Qatar, The View Hospital, and the Military Medical City Hospital, managed by EWS stood out, while in Iraq, Al Imam Al Hassan Al Mujtaba Teaching Hospital in Karbala Governance and Al Nasiriya Teaching Hospital in Dhi Qar Governance were distinguished.Apex Health itself was honored with a Recognition Award under the Gold Initiative Certificate – Star of Excellence in Patient Experience. This distinction highlights the group’s dedication to delivering trusted, high-quality healthcare, building a resilient and sustainable health system, and fostering innovation across all its projects and partnerships.The View Hospital, in affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, has been recognized for its leadership in clinical excellence and continuity of care, and earned Gold in both Safety and Quality of Care and Continuity of Care and Transition Management. A reflection of its commitment to ensuring every patient’s journey is safe, smooth, and supported at every stage.The Military Medical City Hospital, managed by EWS, has been acknowledged for its progressive approach to healthcare innovation, with achieving Silver in Sustainability, Innovation & Technology, reflecting its efforts to integrate advanced solutions, adopt sustainable practices, and continually enhance the way care is delivered.Al Nasiriya Teaching Hospitall, Dhi Qar Governance, Iraq, in recognition for its strong governance and organizational culture, received a Silver in Leadership, Governance, Policy & Culture, highlighting its commitment to effective leadership, clear policies, and a supportive environment that puts patients first.Al Imam Al Hassan Al Mujtaba Teaching Hospital, Karbala Governance، Iraq, has been recognized for its high standards in clinical safety, and was awarded Silver in Safety and Quality of Care, underscoring its dedication to protecting patients, upholding rigorous safety protocols, and delivering reliable, high-quality treatment.Commenting on the achievement, Joseph Hazel, Group Chief Executive Officer, Apex Health, said: “This is a proud moment for our entire team. Earning a Recognition Award along with five certificates in Qatar and Iraq across different categories is more than recognition, it’s a reflection of our people’s dedication, our patients’ trust, and our vision to set new benchmarks in healthcare across the MENA. Our success is strengthened by trusted international partnerships and strong relationships with government entities which have been instrumental in advancing the quality of care we provide, and this belongs to every member of our hospitals who works tirelessly to deliver care that is safe, innovative, and deeply personal.”The recognition from the Arab Hospitals Federation underscores Apex Health’s vision to shape a healthier future through trusted care, advanced technology, and global partnerships with delivering measurable improvements in healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Universal healthcare coverage for all citizens is a challenge for all governments. The better the treatment and freer the access, the longer the waiting lists. There is invariably a case of finite resources trying to meet demand that is effectively infinite, or at least inexorably rising. Healthcare inflation has outstripped general inflation, reaching 10-12% in many countries, and people’s expectations of both availability of health services and the standard of care rise. Also, increased life expectancy can mean that people are living longer, but sometimes with chronic conditions. Qatar is pursuing a smart policy of boosting private sector healthcare and health tourism while maintaining universal coverage. Can it square the circle of combining quality and accessibility? So the approach of Qatar merits attention. Health is a national priority beneath the Qatar Vision framework. State provision is of a high standard, through the Hamad Medical Corporation. The HMC runs the country’s principal not-for-profit hospital, the Hamad General Hospital, which is to be the subject of a major three-year renovation programme. While services will remain open during the refurbishment, some outpatient and inpatient services will be relocated. Renovation will include upgrading buildings for inpatients. There will be single rooms, higher standard facilities and investment in new technology. During the renovation, Ministers have perceived an opportunity to maintain or enhance health services for citizens and expats, while boosting the private sector and developing health tourism. In May HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim al-Mahmoud met representatives of the insurance sector, as part of a policy to encourage the development of health insurance. In 2013-2015 the Government set up a state-run insurance scheme called SEHA, but there were problems with costs and over-claiming, subsequently it perceives partnership with private insurance providers as a superior approach. Meanwhile, the Government has signed contracts with four private sector hospitals to provide treatment for uninsured patients on public hospital waiting lists. The state will pick up the cost in full. This reduces waiting lists while helping to develop private sector provision, in terms of both quality and scale. An additional advantage in developing a strong private medical sector is to make Qatar a favoured destination for health tourism. This was confirmed at the Qatar Economic Forum 2025, held in May, where HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said that positioning Qatar as a destination for health tourists was a strategic aim. Major investment in hotels, transport facilities and other key aspects of infrastructure in preparation for the FIFA World Cup in 2022 means that facilities in the country are world class. In addition, there is a high-quality, well-regarded national airline. Private sector hospitals have high-standard facilities and highly skilled doctors, helped by a favourable visa programme. Health spending has reached 12% of the national budget, which is high by international standards. There is investment in technology, including specialist AI applications that can help with diagnosis and treatment. Qatar is preparing a medical visa programme, to smooth the bureaucracy for a health tourist visitor. Omar al-Jaber, head of the Tourism Development Sector at Visit Qatar, has stated that this measure will encourage visitors for wellness and preventative treatments at resorts, as well as advanced medical procedures such as surgical operations. All the elements are in place for Qatar to compete directly with other nations that attract health tourists, such as Singapore, Dubai and Thailand. This sector is long-established globally, and has become diversified to include wellness destination and places for recuperation. Qatar now hosts a centre, the Zulal Wellness Resort, run by the Chiva-Som branded wellness retreat, established in Thailand 30 years ago. In terms of tourism, Qatar has been successful in attracting visitors for stopover tours, helped by the high reputation of Qatar Airways and the geographical location of the Gulf in between major continents. Health tourism and wellness stays would typically be longer than the four or five days of a stopover visit. Attention has been paid to every aspect of a tourist’s visit: transport infrastructure, quality of hotels, friendliness of welcome, cleanliness of resorts, personal security and quality of attractions. There is a target for the Qatar state to attract 6mn-7mn visitors by 2030, with tourism reaching 15% of GDP. Helped by investment in healthcare as well as infrastructure for vacation visits, this is looking like a feasible target. The author is a Qatari banker, with many years of experience in the banking sector in senior positions.